Penny’s First Royal Show: A Pony Adventure to Remember

There’s something truly magical about watching a young rider take on a big dream—and for 5-year-old Penny, that dream became a reality at this year’s Canberra Royal Show.

Penny’s journey began last September when she met her new pony, Armanii Park Showgirl—better known as Fergie to her friends. Fergie is a true barbie pony Palomino Welsh A with a golden coat and big white socks. Since that first meeting, Penny and Fergie have been inseparable, working together rain, hail, or shine to become a strong and confident team.

Under the guidance of her coach, Samantha Crouch of Serendipity Lodge Show Horses, Penny has been attending regular lessons where she’s learned the importance of good riding posture—keeping her hands steady, sitting tall, and riding with purpose. With every ride, Penny has grown more confident in the saddle, and her bond with Fergie has only deepened.

Together, the pair has been competing in Open Show Pony Leading Rein classes and the Tiny Tot Rider Class, practicing both at home and at local shows as part of the Serendipity Lodge Show Team. All this hard work and dedication led to one very exciting milestone: Penny’s first-ever Royal Show.

In February, Penny packed up her gear and headed to the Canberra Royal Show with the Serendipity Lodge Show Horses Team, where she was entered in three classes: Tiny Tot Rider under 6 years, Leading Rein Open Show Pony, and the always-fun Fancy Dress. It was a big stage for such a young rider, but Penny and Fergie took it all in their stride.

Throughout the week, Penny rode beautifully, showcasing everything she had worked so hard to learn. Her proudest moment? Taking home a 4th place ribbon in the Tiny Tot Rider class! And as if that wasn’t exciting enough, she also had the incredible opportunity to ride another lovely pony—Prada Pines Temptation—owned and led by Hollie Shiels in the Hunter Lead Rein class.

But for Penny, the experience went beyond ribbons and results. The highlight of the week was the time spent with fellow young riders—laughing, learning, and building friendships that will last long after the show dust settles. It was a week full of pony cuddles, big smiles, and unforgettable memories.

Penny’s first Royal Show was more than just a competition—it was a celebration of hard work, courage, and the magic that happens when a little girl and her pony chase their dreams together.

We can’t wait to see where this wonderful duo goes next on their pony journey! Stay tuned—this is just the beginning.